Argostoli, the lively capital of Kefalonia, is a natural hub for boat tours and cruises. Its sheltered harbor, calm waters, and proximity to stunning beaches and islands make it an ideal launchpad for maritime adventures. Whether you’re after a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and good food, or a romantic sunset with wine, Argostoli has it all. We particularly love how some trips include paddleboarding, dolphin spotting, and even clay treatments at Xi Beach, making these excursions more than just a boat ride—they’re a full sensory experience.
One of our favorites is the Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks. It combines the perfect mix of swimming, exploring the Vardiani Islands, and enjoying homemade Greek food, all with the comfort of an open bar. For a more relaxed, romantic vibe, the Sunset Cruise with Swim Stops, Dinner, and Wine offers stunning views as the sun dips behind Kefalonia’s hills, complete with a homemade dinner and drinks. If you prefer to have your own vessel, the [Boat Rental (No License Required)] option lets you explore at your own pace, making it ideal for families or groups wanting independence.
Below, we detail nine of the best boat tours and cruises in Argostoli, helping you find the one that fits your style and budget.
1. Argostoli: Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks
This full-day trip is a standout for its combination of scenic stops, hearty homemade food, and laid-back atmosphere. It runs for about 7.5 hours and features stops at White Rock Beach, the Vardiani Islands, and Xi Beach—each offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. The trip includes a homemade lunch served onboard, accompanied by wine, soft drinks, and water, making it a great value at $68 per person.
What makes this tour a top choice is the personalized service and the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles around Argostoli Bay. Guests rave about the crew’s friendliness and the delicious, filling food. The clay at Xi Beach is a bonus—use it as a natural spa treatment, which adds a fun, tactile element to the day. With gear provided for snorkeling and paddleboarding, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore the waters at each stop.
Bottom line: If you want a full day of swimming, eating, and relaxing with unlimited drinks, this trip hits the mark. It’s particularly good for families or groups wanting a comprehensive Kefalonia experience on the water.
2. Argostoli: Sunset Cruise with Swim Stops, Dinner, and Wine
For those looking for romance or a memorable evening, this 4-hour sunset cruise is hard to beat. Starting from Argostoli, the boat takes you to explore the Vardiani Islands, with swim stops at Xi Beach, famous for its red-brick sands. The highlight? Watching the sun set over Kefalonia while enjoying a homemade dinner on deck, accompanied by local wine.
Guests love the intimate atmosphere and the relaxed pace, which allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the scenery. The crew’s hospitality, combined with the enchanting sunset views, makes this trip a favorite for couples. The cruise also offers scenic views on the way to Kefalonia, with brief stops for photos and sightseeing.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or anyone wanting a soothing evening out with spectacular views, good food, and drinks under the stars.
3. From Argostoli: Vardiani Island Sunset Cruise & Greek Meze
This 4-hour experience combines a mesmerizing sunset, snorkeling at Vardiani Island, and a tasty Greek buffet, making for a full sensory treat. Departing from Dreamy Cruises Kefalonia, the tour includes stops at Xi Beach, where you can swim in warm waters, and a visit to the Vardiani Islands for some stunning photo opportunities.
One of the trip’s special features is the traditional Greek meze, freshly prepared daily, and served with fresh cocktails. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a boat ride—there’s the chance to socialize, taste local flavors, and enjoy Kefalonia’s stunning sunset. Reviews mention how friendly the crew is and how much they enjoyed the night swim at Xi Beach.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to those seeking a relaxed, gourmet, and picturesque evening on the water, especially if you love authentic Greek food and sunset views.
4. Kefalonia: Boat Rental (30HP Motorboat) – No License Required
Want independence? At around $100 for an 8-hour rental, this boat rental offers a flexible way to explore Argostoli Bay and beyond. No license needed, just a quick briefing, so it’s perfect for families or adventurous groups. You can go where your interests take you—be it secluded beaches, caves, or just a leisurely cruise along the coast.
Guests mention how easy it is to navigate, and the staff is helpful. The surprise dolphin sightings make this a particularly memorable option. The freedom to stop whenever and explore at your own pace is what makes this a top pick for independent travelers. It’s also a good way to combine swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing without strict schedules.
Bottom line: Best suited for confident boaters and groups who value flexibility. It’s great if you want to design your own day on the water.
5. Argostoli: Daily cruise with food & drinks around Kefalonia
This 7-hour cruise offers a well-rounded Kefalonia experience, complete with stops at White Rocks Beach, Vardiani Island, and Xi Beach. It includes regional food and drinks, with a good balance between sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The price is $67 per person, and reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness and the tasty buffet.
Guests appreciate the opportunity to see marine life and explore secluded beaches while enjoying wine and regional fare onboard. The tour’s longer duration allows for more relaxed stops—ideal if you prefer to take your time. The mix of swimming, sightseeing, and food makes it popular with couples and families alike.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a full-day trip with good food, scenic views, and plenty of swimming.
6. Kefalonia: Sunset Cruise from Argostoli with Snacks & Wine
This shorter but equally charming 4-hour cruise focuses on the spectacular Kefalonia sunset. Starting from Argostoli, it includes swimming at Vardiani and Xi Beach, with snacks and wine served on deck. The boat’s traditional Greek design adds a cozy touch, and guests love the relaxed atmosphere.
Reviews highlight how this cruise is perfect for unwinding and soaking in the scenery. It’s especially popular among couples looking for a romantic evening with swimming and wine. The limited time makes it a good choice if your schedule is tight but you still want to enjoy Kefalonia’s evening beauty.
Bottom line: Best for couples or those wanting a shorter, scenic sunset experience with some swimming and wine.
$73 per person
7. Argostoli: Sunset cruise with food & drinks
This 4-hour sunset cruise combines a homemade dinner onboard with stops at Vardiani and Xi Beach. The trip features scenic views of the sunset and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax. The crew’s friendly service and the buffet style meal make this a favorite among those who want a casual, enjoyable evening.
Guests mention how much they enjoyed the family-friendly atmosphere and the beautiful sunset as a backdrop. The tour’s moderate length makes it suitable for a quick romantic escape or a fun family outing.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a laid-back evening cruise with good food, drink, and scenic sunset views.
$56 per person
8. Kefalonia Private Cruise – Shore Excursion from Argostoli
For travelers craving exclusivity, this private cruise offers a 5-hour adventure. It features sea turtle sightings, underground caves and lakes, and views of Myrtos Beach. The custom itinerary means you can choose where to go, whether it’s swimming in turquoise waters or exploring caves.
Rated highly for its personalized service, this cruise is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want a tailored experience. The local products tasting and the chance to see geological phenomena add educational value. It’s a bit pricier at $84 per person but offers a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a private, customizable day on the water with wildlife and geological highlights.
$84 per person
9. Kefalonia: Private Sailboat Cruise from Argostoli
Finally, for a truly special experience, the Private Sailboat Cruise is a 4-hour voyage on a classic sailing boat. The trip includes stops at secluded beaches, where you can swim and snorkel in clear waters, and a traditional Kefalonian lunch with local wine.
Guests love the tranquility and exclusivity of this cruise, making it perfect for special occasions or those who simply want to avoid large groups. The captain’s expertise ensures a smooth sail, and reviews highlight how memorable the experience is.
Bottom line: Best suited for romantic couples or families seeking a private, peaceful day at sea with authentic touches.
$113 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Kefalonia Boat Tour
When selecting among these options, think about your priorities: Are you after a full day of activity and food? The Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks offers the most comprehensive experience, while the Sunset Cruises provide a romantic, shorter option. Interested in exploring independently? The Boat Rental gives you freedom and flexibility.
Budget-conscious travelers might lean toward the Daily Cruise with Food & Drinks, whereas those seeking intimacy should consider the Private Cruises. Think about your physical activity level—most trips include swimming and snorkeling, but check the itinerary if you have specific needs.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset cruises and private excursions, to secure your preferred date and time.
To sum it up, Argostoli offers a wide variety of boat tours suited for different tastes and budgets. Whether you want a lively full-day adventure, a romantic sunset, or a private sail, the options above ensure that you’ll find something memorable. For a balanced experience, the Full-Day Trip remains a top choice, but if romance or independence is your goal, the sunset or private options are equally compelling. Start planning early, and enjoy a spectacular day on Kefalonia’s waters.